First Motor Car in Eketahuna, Northern Wairarapa, New Zealand, a Packard with Cape Top, c.1903

This photograph shows the first motor car known to stop in Eketahuna, a Packard fitted with a cape top, pictured around 1903. The car is parked outside the Commercial Hotel and appears to be chauffeur-driven, while local townsmen gather to admire the unusual sight. For a small rural settlement, the arrival of a motor car was a major event and attracted considerable attention.

At the time, road travel in the northern Wairarapa was difficult, with rough surfaces that often became deep mud during winter. Early journeys by motor car required patience, skill, and determination, making visits like this noteworthy occasions. This image captures a moment when motor vehicles were still a novelty and road travel was only just beginning to change everyday life in rural New Zealand.

Digital download: 6144 × 4096 pixels. Suitable for up to A2 printing 

Image reflects real-life scenes from the period.

Digital PDF download - The image is offered as a historical digital reproduction.

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